An architect's guide to specifying a smart home
Involve the integrator at concept or spatial coordination stage. Smart systems need space, cable routes and coordination with lighting, joinery and M&E, all of which are cheaper to resolve on paper.
Involve the integrator at concept or spatial coordination stage. Smart systems need space, cable routes and coordination with lighting, joinery and M&E, all of which are cheaper to resolve on paper.
Where we fit in the RIBA Plan of Work
The RIBA Plan of Work 2020 has eight stages, numbered 0 to 7, from strategic definition to use (RIBA). For smart home systems, we suggest:
| Stage | Smart home input |
|---|---|
| 1 Preparation and briefing | Capture the client's priorities: lighting, climate, security, audio, shading, accessibility. |
| 2 Concept design | Allow space for an equipment room or cupboard. Identify where systems influence the design, such as glazing and shading. |
| 3 Spatial coordination | Coordinate keypad and sensor positions, speaker and access point locations, blind pockets, rack ventilation and cable routes with lighting and M&E. |
| 4 Technical design | Cabling schedules, device schedules and first fix drawings. |
| 5 Manufacturing and construction | First fix, second fix and commissioning. |
| 6 Handover | Training, documentation, account transfer. |
| 7 Use | Aftercare and adjustments as the client settles in. |
Spatial requirements to plan for
- Equipment room or cupboard, ventilated, with power, centrally placed for cable runs.
- Ceiling space for access points, speakers and sensors that does not clash with the lighting layout.
- Blind and curtain pockets with power, coordinated with glazing and joinery.
- Keypad positions agreed early, so they align with joinery and finishes.
- Service routes between floors and to outbuildings, with spare capacity.
Lighting design and control
Lighting control and lighting design should be developed together. Circuit grouping decides what scenes are possible. If a lighting designer is appointed, we work from their scheme and advise on circuits, drivers and dimming compatibility.
Aesthetics
Most clients want the technology to disappear: flush keypads matched to switch finishes, paintable speaker grilles, recessed access points and blinds that vanish into pockets. These are solvable at stage 3 and difficult at stage 5.
Heritage projects
On listed buildings, reversible and wireless approaches reduce intervention in historic fabric. Our listed buildings guide sets out the considerations.
Common late changes we can help avoid
- No space allocated for the rack, so it ends up in a loft or under the stairs.
- Keypads competing with switches on crowded walls.
- Blinds specified after plastering, with no power at the window.
- Wi-Fi coverage not considered in large or heavily glazed homes.
Working with us
We work with architects through our trade partnership, providing design input, specifications and drawings as well as installation and aftercare. Our CEDIA certification is listed on our credentials page.
Common questions
When is it too late to bring in an integrator?
It is never too late to add smart technology, but after stage 4 options narrow and costs rise. Stage 2 or 3 is ideal.
Do you produce drawings for the design team?
Yes. We provide device and cabling schedules and first fix information for the electrical contractor.
Can you work with a lighting designer?
Yes. We work from the lighting scheme and advise on control, circuits and dimming compatibility.
Related services
Sources
Last reviewed 1 November 2026. Prices ex. VAT unless stated.
More guides
Smart home technology for developers and housebuilders
Specify infrastructure as standard and offer features as upgrades. A good cabling and network backbone adds little to build cost and keeps every buyer's options open.
Smart technology for landlords, HMOs and student accommodation
In multi-occupancy buildings, smart technology earns its place through keyless access, controlled heating, early warning of leaks and damp, and a network residents can rely on.
CCTV for businesses: UK rules and best practice
Businesses using CCTV are data controllers. You will usually need to pay the ICO data protection fee, display signs, limit what you record and respond to requests for footage.
Ready to start your journey?
Tell us about your home and we will reply within one working day to arrange a free 15-minute discovery call.